Preschool Chef

Cooks at The Learning Experience prepare nutritionally balanced, attractive family-style meals for children. While spreading happiness throughout the center, our cooks must follow set menu, order food appropriately within the center budget, as well as adhere to state and federal nutritional requirements for children.

• Plan, post, and follow approved menus that are nutritionally sound, making alternate substitutions as needed.
• Keep accurate inventory records; and place food order, all within Center food budget.
• Serve food at appropriate temperatures and in appropriate serving containers, i.e., not sending cans and/or large hot pans into the classroom.
• Maintain effective, safe storage for food, cooking and serving supplies, equipment and utensils, and cleaning supplies in accordance with the state and/or local regulation.
• Keep accurate meal and snack count records as required per CACFP regional guidelines as required (where applicable).

• Ask for help and assistance when needed.
• Maintain positive and supportive business, licensing, and regulatory relationships.
• Work in harmony with other Center staff and show enthusiasm toward the job.
• Handle routine situations with good judgment, flexibility, and positive attitude.
• Participate in and cooperate with group decisions; a team player.
• Establish and maintain a friendly, supportive rapport with the parents.
• Always provide ongoing positive customer service to all parents.
• Responsible for the food shopping as needed.
• Assist in classrooms with children as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Must meet state specific guidelines High School Diploma/ GED required. ECE coursework preferred.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Relevant experience in a licensed childcare facility kitchen, commercial kitchen, public school cafeteria or equivalent.
• Must meet state specific guidelines for the role.
• Have a food service/food handler's permit or license according to state/local regulations.
• Follow state and federal guidelines including immunizations, employment physicals and required health and safety training.

• Stand and walk for extended periods of time without significant discomfort.
• Ability to safely lift and carry objects weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Reach, stretch with hands and arms.
• Climb or balance.
• Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Ability to supervise by sight and sound.
• Maintain mental and physical alertness and an appropriate level of energy to perform essential job functions.